Popcorn Park Removes Dart from Juvenile Redtail

This dart, at left, can be seen embedded in the hawk's left thigh (above.)

This poor hawk, a juvenile redtail, was brought in 2 weeks ago. He had been hanging around the backyard of a concerned homeowner in Berkley Twp. The homeowner saw him struggling to get around for about a week , but the hawk was still strong enough to avoid capture, but not able to catch his own prey. The homeowner was finally able to throw a towel over the hawk when he became to weak to get away and then brought him to us.

It took some time to remove the dart without causing further damage because the "spear" head was embedded pretty deep in his thigh. After the dart was removed and he had a meal, we took him to Toms River Avian Care for his rehab. He's been doing fine, eating well and getting stronger. What goes through some peoples heads, was this supposed to be fun or some kind of "sport" shooting darts at this majestic bird.

The young hawk recovered nicely, and here you can see him shortly after release.